


MIDNIGHT 

Dramatized oy 

Walter W. Fesslek. 



Entered according to Act of Congress in the office 

of the Librarian, at Washington, I), C , 

Nov.#1882, by Walter AV. Fessler. 



Sheuango Valley NeirB Pt, Gvpern'tile, Pa, 






0* 



^\^^A^\"1 ACT FIRST. 

X^ ^\ 



SCENE FIRST. 

Lihmrij lii I. Sir John and Madolin enter 
L.I. E. 

MadoUn. — Uncle, Elaine wants you, 
she knows the truth. Sir William Biron 
told her, she had not many hours to live, 
and she has taken a strange fancy into 
her head, one that must be humored, 
you will go to her at once, and remem- 
ber above all things, that she must die 
happily and in peace. No matter what 
she desires, she must have it. 

Sir John. — That she shall (going R. 
take care ofyourselfMadolin, you look 
very ill. (Exit. R.I. E.) 

Sladolin. — I couhl fancy that 1 am 
dreaming, and yet she is but a child, a 
simple innocent dying child, was ever 
any woman asked to do so strange 
thing before. How can I ask him when 
1 jemember that but one short week 
ago, I promised to be his wife myself, 
yet how can I evade doing so? After 
all she is but a dying child and it can- 
Tiot matter. How little I dreamed how 
dearly she loved him. 

.4/<?6^<r/«.— (Enters R. I.E.) How 's 
Elaine Madolin ? 

Madolin. — She is still living. 

Aldeniin. — How ill you l-^ok, m.y dar- 
ling, you have worn yourself out 5 you 
are tr^^mbling an'^^-old, you'^j^iust take 



more <'are of yourself for my sake Mad- 
oliii, yon belong tome now. (Puts his 
arm around her.) 

Mmlolin.—Uu^hl 

Al'leniin. — Why, Madolin. yoii are ill, 
let me bring you a glass of wine. 

Madolin.— IVo, listen Aldewin,! have 
something so strange to tell you, some- 
thing winch none of ug suspected. Do 
yon know that Elaine loves you. 

Aldf'iiiiii, — I believe she loves every 
one, she has one of the sweetest and 
most sunsliiny natures that I have 
ever-met. It seems a thousand pities 
that she should die so young. Is there 
no hope, Madolin '? 

Mdnolin, — Xo. The doctors have all 
said the same thing. She cannot live 
more than 24 hours longer. 

A hleviin. — Poor child . 

Madolin. — She loves you Alderwin. 
It seems so strange she is such a child, 
that I did not think she knew what 
love meant. I did not know that she 
had a thought beyond her parents and 
friends. 

Afdei'uiin. — I am her friend Mado- 
lin, 

MadoUn. — No it is more than that, she 
loves you better than any one on earth, 
better than her own life (lam using her 
own words) all her girlish heart is given 
to you Aldewin, all her innocent love 
and standing as she does now, on the 
very tbreshold of another world, uhe 
cannot rest with out you. 

Ahle.min. — Poor Elaine. 



3 

MadoJin. — Tell me ANevvin did you 
ever, when you first oame here, tell her 
that you admired her, or gpeak to her in 
8ueh'a way that ghe coi'.ld mistake your 
words for love. 

Ahlermiii. — No never. I have laugh- 
ed and chatted with her, she has always 
seemed to me a simple hearted girl, full 
of mirth and life. To speak ca^iididly I 
have never looked up on her as a wo- 
man, 1 have sung, danced, walked, talk- 
ed, laughed and jested with her. I may 
have called her by some pet name as 
every one else does, but I have never 
thought of her save as a child. I have 
never loved, and never shall love any 
woman but you. 

Madoliv, — I know it is not that, how 
strangely that she should love you so. 
that with death so near, she should cling 
to you she lies thinking of you, she 
speaks to me of you, she uncxuestionably 
loves vou dearl}'. 

Aldemin. — Madolin it is strange, that 
you should say so much to me, of 
the love of another. 

Madolhi. — I must, I have promised to 
tell you, that she loves you better than 
all tiie world beside. 

Aidtmin. — I understand. Poor child, 
It is a sick fancy, people think strange 
things when they are ill. 

.\i,:()(,(iti. — Yes it is a fancy — and 
Alderwin la^t night, as she lay listen- 
inglslie tells me) to the roll of the wind 



in ihe valley, a Rtrano:e sweet idea eame 
to her, a stranoje loving, tender wish, 
and i«he assures nie, that she cannot die 
happy. unless this wish is granted. You 
know how happj her short life has been, 
§11 sniiies and sunshine, love and ten- 
derness. She has literally lived upon 
love, and now^ it is all over. She lies 
dyeing and she has but one wish, one 
great desire. She thinks of it, broods 
over it, it stands between her and the 
peaee, thatin death, should be hers — 
between her and the long sweet sleep 
that knows no waking. And the gran- 
ting of this desire — this wish, this pray- 
er, rests with you Alderwin, with 
you. 

Aklemiu. — With me? I will do any- 
thing, you know that Madolin. Poor 
Elaine, what can I do for her. tell me 
Madolin. what can I d > for her. 

Ma(h>h'n. — She loves you, can you not 
guess ? 

AhUmin. — Xo, do you mean that she 
would like to see me, that she would 
like me, to be with her at the end ? 

Maddlin — No it is more than that. Oh 
Alderwin 1 cannot tell you, and yet she 
made me promise that I would. 

Aldemin. — Madolin do you know that 
you are smiling, while you have tears in 
jj^our eyes. 

Ma^oliu. — I know I cannot help it, 
It is all so sad, so childlike. Any one 
would both weep and smile. What do 
you th ink this fancy of hers is A Idew in . 

Aldemin. — I cannot tell. 



Madi>li)t. — Romeniberiiig that she 
loves 3'0ii better than all the world, can 
you not guess. 

AldiiVJ.in. — I cannot even guess, you 
must tell me J/adolinand 1 will do any- 
thing to please you and her, 

Jfxdoliti — Remember anothe]" thing, 
she does not know that you care for me, 
or that I love you, or that I have prom- 
ised to marry you. She loves you witii 
all her heart, she knows that in a few 
lioui's she wiilhaye parted from you for- 
ever, and hei- last wisJi is, that she shall 
live in the memory of all who knew her 
as — your wife. 

Aldevim. — Mj"" wife ? 

MaOolu). — YesAlderwin as your wife- 
She wants the name lliat shall live after 
lier to be Elaine Carleton. She wants 
the notice of her death to run — Elaine, 
the wife of Sir Aldewin Carelton. 

Aldemin. — But 3'ou are to be my wife 
Madolin, no one else. 

JIadoJui. — So I could be afterwards, 1 
would nor give you up to any one else, 
but Elnines case is so ditierent. It is 
like lending your name for a few hours 
to please and soothe a dying 'duld, 
onl3' for a few houi"s, i>efore sunset to- 
morrow, she will be at rest, ami we 
should neither of us like to remember, 
tliat she had been unhappy at the last. 

Aldriain. — It is so strang'e, I can hard- 
ly understand it. Surely 5 ou Mado- 
lin my promised wife do not ask me t(> 
do sr.ch a thing as that. 

JL'd'duu — I tlo ask vou, we liave i)er- 



(I 
haps a long life before us, years in whicJt 
we can love each other, and be hai)}>3-. 
I ask you to do it, but 1 tell you, that 1 
do not like it. I am afraid [ am jealous, 
lest even the semblance of your name, 
even the shadow of j-our love should go 
to anotlier, yet on the other han.d I ean- 
not council you to refuse Elaine^s pray- 
er. Tliat must not be, no matter what 
we suiter, she would be wretclied and 
die unhapp\'. 

Alderntii). — I cannot grant it, I should 
loathe myself for being- untrue, it would 
be a false position, miserably false. I 
am very sorry for the poor child, but 
even to please lier, I cannot lose my 
selt-respect. Do not ask me Madolin, I 
cannot do it. (crosses.' 

M<Ad(>Jin. — I do ask you, it will last 
only a fei^" hours. Oh Alderwin if I can 
lend you, sureh" you may go. The pain 
will be mine not yours, if 1 cm bear it, 
surely you may,' she is onh' 18 and 
dying, who could refuse her last re- 
quest. 

Akh'UiJn. — It seems to me that a dy- 
ing child, ought to think of something 
else. 

Madolin, — You do not understand her, 
if there were hopes of her recovery, she 
would never dream of it. Can you not 
understand the simple love that wants 
to live through eternity. The heaven 
she dreams of will hold all she loves. 

Aldei'.i.iii. — I l)elong to you Madolin not 
to he.i. 



MiidnUu. — (Crying.) I liate you to do 
it, I feel the paiii ami bitterness of it. 
yet I urge it, I pray yon to yield. Lis- 
ten Alderwiii — slie'wants to\lie holding 
your hand, she will feel no fear then, 
tliink of her' pirj- her, do not be- hard 
upon iier' 80 young, so lovely, so loving 
with that one wish in death, (not in life i 
to bear your name, you must consent 
Aldewin, 1 cannot take back the an- 
swer, No, (crossing,) 

Sir John. — (Enters!*. I. E. yuietly 
.ind places his Iiand onAldewiu's shoul- 
der.) Madoiin has told you all. Poor 
child she has loved you all her short life, 
and wants to belong to you in death. 
M}' pretty Elaine, no man has ever had 
so sweet a child, you will do as she 
wishes Aldewin! (Aldewin looks 
down and does not reph'.) You cann(»t 
refuse, you will not refuse. No man on 
the face of the wide earth could be cruel 
enough to refuse such a prayer. I can 
bear to lose her, but I cannot bear that 
she should end her bright yonng life in 
bitterness. Aldewin you have been 
with us now for t lie last year, and we 
have learned to love you dearly ; 3-our 
father and 1 were the dearest of friemls 
from childhood up, I know he left you a 
large estate and his title, yet 1 will 
give 3'ou the bulk of my wealth if you 
will come and be kind to her until she 
dies (crossing to Madoiin.) Madoiin 
help me, he nui>t not refuse, tell him 
Madoiin how we love her, her mother 
i\\\^\ I, rl;at slie ];a-],een tliu very pride 



5 

«:>f our lives. We have been kind to you 
M.*id(>liii,we liaye treated you, loved j'ou, 
a^ our own, rep.'iv us now, ple.;id that 
ourcliild may be niade happy in the 
.shadow of his love. 

M'.i'h,Jin. — (crossing'.) You will eoii- 
i^ent dear, 1 ask you tV^r my sake, because 
I love my cousin so dearly, because the 
knowledii-e tliat her death was unliappy, 
wouJd end)itter all mv life. 

Ahlri'iiii. — 8top you need urge notli- 
ing further, your life shall not be embit- 
tered M.adolin, I will do what yon ask 
me. 

SirJ'ihn. — (crosses and takes Aide- 
wins h;nd.; 1 cannot thank you, ]»ut 
every day of my life 1 will bless you, and 
heaven will give you every good gift. 
She will be so happy, my poor Elaine, 1 
have .^eut /or the rector — the desire of 
her heart can be granted, yon can be 
married when he comes and you will 
istay by her until she dies. 

AhJcAuin. — (Look.t earnestly at Mad- 
olin.) Do you wish this — earnestly and 
truly wish it i 

Madolin, — 1 do. 

Aldeiuhi. — Then it shall be done. But 
always remember my true Itve, that it 
has been done at your 
your desire. 

Sir John. — Going to R. I. E.) Come 
now ere it will be to late. (They all 
exit E. 1. E. Enter Tom and Katy R. I. 
E.) iOhanqi.' of Scene.) 



Turn-. — Htir«,' K.-ity, did you ev«'r iK^nrof 
llie like of a dyin.2: girl wnntiiig to get 
iiianied. 

Kuti'. — Ain't It tenible Tom, to die so 
yoniig. Do yon know slie wanted to be 
inarried i;< the parlor, and they've moved 
JHM- bed in there. 

TiHii. — How did you know she wanted 
to marry 8ir Aldewin. 

Kctt/, — 1 overlieard her a.sk Mis8 Mad- 
olin to tell Sir Aldewin. 

7"o//?.-Katy if you was going to die, 
would you send for me to marry you ? 

J\ati/,-No, indeed. 

7'oyii.-Ai).d whj'not. 

/\«///.-Because I don't love you. 

Tom.-But I love yon. 

h'litif.-iyo y«^u? 

7o//i.-Yes. 

Ko.ti/.-'ilmn may be J might love 
you. 

y^tiiii. -But can't you give me a more 
eonvineing proof ? 

J\ati/.-ln wliat way. 

Torn. -By giving me a kis-i. 

Kilty.- You YvOirt hurt me. 

7V77H.-X0. 

7t'(/f//.-Then here goes (she goes up as 
if to kiss him, asid slaps his face, and 
inns off L. 1. E. laughing.) 

2''>/ii<.-( feeling hislace.)Sure that's all 
the proof 1 want (Exit. L. I.E.) 

I Change of scene (.'. D. Parlors, beau- 
tifully furnished. ]>ed ^L. (", window 
K, of C. Doors with Moon-light s^hining 
through, 2 steps go np to (;. iJooTji bacK 
tmd \vh<'n the floors are open the bal- 



to 

roiiy can be f^eeii runniiig^ across the 
back, Elaine discovered in bed, Sir Al- 
dewin in front of the bed holding; 
Elaine's hand. The Ret^orback of the 
bed with book in his hand. Sir John, 
Lady Lynne, Barbara t)ie iinrse, Dr. Bi- 
row and Madolin around the bedside, as 
the scene opens.) 

Hector. — 1 now pronounce you man 
and wife. 

Elaine. — 1 anr^o happy (soft rustling of 
wind.) Thai is it Aldcwin, the trees 
are whispering, ?ind the angels c.-illing, 
listen for my name, (Ahlewin kneels by 
tlie bedside, Elaine puts her arms around 
his neck.) I love you so much. (Aide- 
win sighs, Elaine sinks away, • clock 
strikes one.) 

Barbara. — (FeelingElaine's forehead.) 
It is the end sir, I expected it. 

Sir AJde.ujin. — I will not disturb her. 

Madolin, — Speak to her. 

Aldevyin. — Elaine — Elaine — Elaine. 

Elaine. — (Opening her eyes.) You 
have called me back again ; my spirit was 
about to take its tlight. (Barbara gives 
her some medicine in a spoon. 

Dr. Biron. — (Fev'ingof Elaine's fore- 
head. ; She had fainte«l Sir John; this is 
noi death. 

Sir John. — Xot dearlj, Heaven be 
thanked. 

Dr. Biron. — Look, see there is a tinge 
of color in the face and on the lips, 
that terrible whiteness has gone. 

Sir John. — (To Alderwin.) If she 
lives, after heaven we shall owe it toyou. 



11 

(Madoliii hides her face in her lianus 
Sir John touches Aklevvin,) she is pray- 
ing for her, and heaven always hears 
such prayers. 

Loxly Lyune. — (To Aldewin) Heaven 
bless you, my dear, and give you, when 
you ask it, your hearts desire. 

Aldewin. — (Aside, looking atMadolin.) 
My heart's desire. 

Dr. Biron. — I am very pleaed to find 
1 was mistaken, but for this marriage, 
she would have drifted slowly away, un- 
doubtedly it has saved her life. 

Lady Lyune. — And now you think she 
will recover, you give us hope. 
Dr. Biron. — ^^\'es, I believe now that she 
will live (Aldewin and Madolin exchange 
<me long lingering look) There must 
«till be great care exercised for she is 
not yet out of danger, out there is rea- 
son to hope she will soon be well, as she 
is no\\ sleeping soundly, : would ; Ivise 
you all to leave her alone with her hus- 
band. (Exit all.) 

Ltxdy Lynne. — Madolin perhaps you 
had better remain aiid keep Aldewin 
company. (Exit.) 

Aldeuin, — (Eising.) Heaven knows 
Madolin th? !: I do not grudge the fair 
young child h(-r life, but what am 1 to 
do, tell me Madolin what 1 am to do or 
I sliall go mad, 1 must have some words 
of comfort, come and talk i ^ me. 

Madolin. — (go ug to him.) Talk is 
useless, there is nothing to be done, (cry- 
ing)! — Oh Aldewin I did it, and yet I 
nuist not mind, it has saved her life. 



12 

Aldewin. — And ruined ours, 1 am not 
vexed about it, 1 am glad she sliould 
live — she is a loving child, but Madolin 
1 would rather Iiave given my life for 
her. than my freedom. What can be 
done, I am a strong man, you a weak 
girl, yei my strength seems to have 
failed me, my thoughts pain me, 

Madolin. — (taking his arm.) You are 
tired; come and rest Aldewin, I will 
make you some tea, and we will not 
talk until 3^ou have rested. 

Aldewin. — Madolin do you realize what 
happened ; I do not myself; 1 can not. 
Twenty-four hours since I had not giv- 
en ene thought to any woman in the 
wide world, bui yourself, niul now 1 
am married, there must be some way 
outof it, for I did not mean it, I can love 
no wife but you. 

Madolin. — We will talk about it later 
on, not just now. ^Ve must have time to 
think, and one word may endanger 
Elaine^s life, she loves you so dearly. 
We must be patient, we acted as we did 
for a good purpose, help will come to us 
sooner or later, but we must be careful 
for her sake. (Points to Elaine.) 

Vhleunn. — Madolin 1 am heart sick, J 
am wretched, I see no way out of my 
cruel position, it is a false position, no 
man could ever be in one more false, and 
1, oh Madolin, why did I yield to your 
wishes. 

Madolin. — We did it for the best, you 
could not have refused, it would simply 
kill her. Try to forget, Aldewin, for a 



liiu*'. Aide win' Trios I.J kiss hor) \ay 
you forget dear thru must nor be. 

Aldan'K. — (Drawing ba«'k.) TiMie it 
must not be. OIi, ]Madolin, if each tear 
was a tear of blood, it I'onld not undo 
what you and I have done. My darling 
we did wrong, an .1 good never comes "of 
wrong doing, 1 can see it all now, F did 
not love her, I should not have married 
her, even to have saved her life, I loved 
you and 1 have acted falsely. It has all 
been a terrible mistake ^iadoiin. 

^lado(i■d,—^ye did it for the l)est. 

Alder.iin. — If it had been the will of 
heaven, that she sliould die, she would 
have died. It is nonsense to say that I 
have helped to save her life. We have 
done a bitter wrong Madolin 

Mndulin. — It is all my fault, you would 
not have done it, but for me, you 
know she loves 3'oupoor child. 

Ahh'Uiin, — I am sorry for her too, 1 am 
glad her life is spared. But Madoliii 
you and 1, you and I. 

Elaina. — (waking, calls.) Aldewin, 

Ahlemin. — (Quickly goes to the bed.) 
Yes dear, what is it, 

Elaiui' — Will you sit by my side, I w;>nt 
to talk to you (Aldewin sits by the bed 
side.) Have I deceived j^ou Aldewin, 
given you life instead of death, I never 
dreamed ol living, if I had, I never 
should have done as I did. (EnterLady 
Lynne, goesto the bedside.) But you 
are not sorry are you. 

Liidii LijiiiK'. Sorry my darling — why 



u 

roriy, what o'reater treasure could any 
one will than yow. 

EhiJne. — You think so mamma, he- 
.\-ULseI am all the world to 3^0 u. 

Lad;/ Lijnne, — You are all the w^orld to 
Aide win. 

Elaine. — You have saved my life 
twice over, how good of you, Mamma I 
am sure that I was dying, I could feel 
it in some strange way, that my spirit 
was about to depart, when my husband 
called me. He called Elaine, and I came 
back at the sound of his voice, but for 
him, for that one cry, my spirit would 
have gone out into the great unknown 
world and I should not be here, so you 
must love him very much Mamma, next 
tome will you? 

Lady Lynne. — I will indeed, he knows 
that. 

Elaine. — 1 am so happy Mamma. Do 
vou think I shall ever l:>e sorry I did not 
die. 

Lady Lynne. — You are so fanciful, my 
darling. This marriage of ?/ours, was 
but a fanc}', that you should ever be 
sorry for getting well is a fancy. I 
could not have lived without you. (Exit, 
after kissing Elaine,) 

Elaine — How they love me, (putUng 
her arms around his neck,) and how- I 
love you my darling. It seems to me 
that all my life will be too short to love 
you in. (Madolin all this time has been 
standing by the window in tlie moon 
light and droits into a chair with a sigh 
Aldewin starts.) (Curtain.) 



15 
ACT SECOND.— Scene First. 

Scene same as act 1st 2 years supposed 
to elapse, 3 or 4 trunks, and shawl 
straps, lying about the room Katy pack- 
ing a valise, Tom strapping a trunk as 
the scene opens, 

Katy. — There, thank fortune, that is 
the last package. 

Tom. — (strapping a trunk.) That's 
what it is to travel with a wife, Katy, I 
believe Lady Lynne, after thinking of 
her daughter, in every imaginable pre- 
dicament, has packed up the means of 
rescue from one and all. (Enter 2 men 
and carry off th« trunks C.) 

Katy. — And my opinion is they havn't 
found the right remedy yet. There is 
only one medicine that will do her any 
good. 

Tom. — And what is that. 

Katy. — The love of her husband. 

Tom. — Does she suspect, he don't love 
her? 

Katy. — I think she does, she is jealous 
of Sir Aldewin and the pain of it is kill- 
ing her, she don't smile as she used too, 
and seemingly, cares for nothing but 
her child. Ah Tom, (picks up v.*»lise) I'm 
afraid there will be hot water in this 
family. 

2o>yi.— I expect so Katy, but there is 
one way to stop it. 

Katy. — How so, 

Tom. — Keep the water cold» rBoth 
Exit C= with parcels.) 



16 

Dr.Biron.—CEntGY^ withLadyLynne.) 
If Lady Careltou were not your daugh- 
ter, if she were a stranger, i should mo&t 
certainly say, that she was ill, rather 
from something preying on her mind, 
than from any bodily ailment. No doe- 
tors can reach the mind, there are only 
three medicines that ^^ill do it good, 
kin'^ness, fresh air, and change of scene. 
If Lady Carelton has anything preying 
on her mind, one of these things will 
reach it. 

Ladt/ Lynne. — It is impossible she 
could have anything on her mind, she 
is happy, and beloved, and blest with a 
kind husband, and a dear child, she has 
not one wish unfulfilled. 

Dr, Biron. — People grow ill some- 
times for the want of something to stir 
them into more active life. 

Lady Lynne. — And you really think, 
this voyage will do her good. 

Dr. Biron. — One thing is very certain, 
if she remains here, and as she is, she will 
inevitably fade away. If she travels, it 
is possible, that in a few weeks, she may 
become stronger and healthier than 
ever. Did you notice her strange lan- 
guor, Lady Lynne? She never raised her 
eyes to mine, she took far less interest in 
her own case, than she would have tak- 
en in that of a stranger. When a sweet 
sensitive girl like your daughter is lan- 
guid after that fashion, there is some- 
thing vitally wrong. 

Lady M. — You ofertainly know best 



17 
Doctor, but why could she not delay her 
journey a little longer. 

Di. Biron. — Because delay in this 
case, is very dangerous and th*e next 
steamer does not sail for three weeks. 
Take the advice of an experienced phy- 
sician Lady Lynne, and let your daugh- 
ter depart to-day, I must go now as I 
have important business elsewhere, (goes 
to C. door.) I hope Lady Lynne, 
upon your daughters return to find her 
much improved. Good morning. 

LadY Lynne. — Good morning doctor. 
(Comes down stage.) 

Elaine. — (Enters R.) I am sorry to 
seethe doctor, Mamma, there was no 
need for his visit, I am well enough, as 
well as 1 ever shall be, (?side,) who 
shall minister to a mind diseased. 

Lady Lynne — But my dear, I am sure 
you will enjoy the change, and besides 
Aldewin, Madolin will be a constant, and 
cheerful companion . 

Elaine. — I suppose so. 

Lady Lynne. — Now my darling cheer 
up. It w ill only be a short time until you 
re. urn to us restored in health. (Kisses 
Klnine.) I'll go now and see that every- 
thing is prepared for your departure. 
(Exit. R,) 

Elaine. — After all what does it matter, 
(goes to table R. sits down and picks up 
a book, turning the leaves over very care- 
lessly.) 

Madolin. — (Enters L.) Elaine you 
look ill, (crossing to her,) are you griev- 



IS 
hi^^ about leaving home ! 

i.laine.—{ThYO\\& the book on the ta- 
ble.) No Madolin, I was just think- 
ing. 

jnulolin.—ii^UimVmg beside Elaine 
wiih one hand on the back of the chair.) 
Thinking? Of what? 

ii7<a«e.— If 1 should die what would 
become of little Pearl. 

MadoUn.— But you are not going to 
die, Elaine, 

Elaine. — If anything should happen to 
me Madolin, would you adopt my little 
one, would you love her, and treat her, 
as your own child ? 

J/«(?o?/)/.— "^lo.st ininly I should. 

Elaine. — You to)*' me once that you 
would never marry, Madolin, do you re- 
member. If I died do you think you 
would change your mind. 

Jladoliii. — My dear Elaine, how can I 
tell what will happen to me. I do not 
think I shall marry, because there is no 
one, whom I care to marry. 

Elaine. — I am sorry 1 did not die, when 
I was ill, it would have been much bet- 
ter. 

Madolin. — My darling you must not 
talk in that fashion. Why do you wish 
that you had died. How cruel of you 
to say that, you who are the light of 
South wold, when we were all ready to 
give our lives for yours. 

Elaine. — One may give up that which 
is dearer than life. 

Madolin. — Whit has shadowed your 
face, Elaine, tell me. 



19 

Elaine. — (Passionately clutches Mad- 
olJn looking up intoher face.) Keep my 
faith in you alive, Madolin, even if I mis- 
trust any one else, never let me mistrust 
you. 

Madolin. — You never shall. 

Elaine. — Madolin do you think Sir Al- 
dewin loves me ? 

JIadolin. — Yes I am sure he does. sure- 
ly you have not made yourself unhappy, 
bydoubtino; a husband, so good and 
true as yours, have you Elaine? 

Elaine. — (Timidly.) Just a little. 

Madolin. — Then you haye done a\ lOn-^, 
steel your heart against all doubts of 
him. Xo wife can do a more Toolish 
thing than op(>n her heart, to doubts of 
her husband. Iiis the first step to v> rds 
misery, that ends in ruin. There Elaine 
don't make yourself unhappy, any lon- 
ger, will you ? 

Elaine.— ri\ try not too. 

Madolin. — (Starts to go.) By the way, 
i'd almost forgotten what I came Ox\ 
there's a poor old man at the back doo/ 
who is very much in need of a.-sistarce in 
the way of elothhi^, and I came to ask 
yon if Aldewin had any tiling in his 
wardrobe, that he didn't care for, 

Elaine. — (Rising.) I don't knowMad- 
olin, but I'll look and see. 

Madolin. — And I'll go and ask him to 
wait (exit L. Elaine goes to wardrobe 
opens it and selects an old paii- of pants^ 
and a coat; folding the pants.) 



20 

Elaine. — I don't think Aldewin, will 
caiefor these(foldiug the coat,) what's 
that, money, perhaps. (Feels in the 
pocket.) An old letter addressed to Sir 
Aldewin Carlton, throws the coat 
over a chair, looking at tlie letter.) I 
wonder what's in it. (opens the letter, 
music.) Di:ar Sir Aldewin^ I lutce done 
my rcnj best^ I hare talcen the ablest coun- 
sels opinion in London, I ha-e htoK'ed np 
authortties, read, and 'hoiujht. I Lave con- 
sulted bonie of the most eniment members oi 
the legal profession, all ayree that there 
is no 2-)0s>iible icai/, of v^'hick i/ou can free 
yourselj from the marriage you havo con- 
tracted. If, as an old friend, and a man of 
thevjorld, I might presume to advise, I 
should say thai the wisest plan noio, will 
be to male the best of your lot, as what 
cannot be cured, must be endured. I am 
sorry not to be able, to send you news more 
acceptable. 

Elaine. — (Crushing the letter in her 
hand. Dated two months after our mar- 
riage. Why lias no mercy been shown 
me, why did I not die. (:Sits at table R. 
short pause, looks at the letter and puts 
it in her bosom. 

Aldewin. — (Enters C. Elaine I've 
brought you a bunch of roges, which I 
know you will admire as they are very 
choice. (Hands them to her standing 
back of the chair, Elaine takes them and 
carelessly throws them on the table.) 
My gift does not seem to find favor in 
yonr sight. 



21 

Elaine.— (curtly,) It does not, (aside,) 
why need he pretend. 

Aldewin. — Elaine you haye changed 
very much to me of late, you look very 
ill, and very unhappy, will you tell me 
what makes you so. 

Elaine. — (Rises Aldewin goes down L. 
(J.) Aldewin I must say to you now, 
what I have never said before,' My face 
burns with shame when I think of it. 
I wish to tell you, that I am very sorry 
about our marriage. 

Aldewin. — Our marriage? what ©f 
that. 

Elaine. — I did wrong,and my only ex- 
cuse is, I loved 3^ou very much, and I 
quite believed that I was going to die. 

Aldewin. — My dear Elaine, why refer 
to this, it is all past and gone. 

Elaine. — Xot quite, I have discovered 
since then, that you do not love me. 
You married me in simple compliance 
with my wish, in the full belief that I 
should die. I cannot forgive myself 
that I lived. I have been aware for 
some time that you do not love me. but 
now I have the pain of knowing, that 
you have tried to set aside your marriage 
with me, 

Aldewin. — How do you know that. 

Elaine. — By this (handing him the let- 
ter.) Did you go to London purposely, 
to see if you could be freed from me"? 

Aldewin. — Yes I did, I do not attempt 
10 deny it Elaine. 

Elaine. — Will you tell me frankly, why 



.yoti wished to s(jt the marriage aside, Sir 
xVldewin. 

AJdevln. — Yes, it was because I loved 
8onie one else very much, and I wanted 
to 3e free. 

Elaine. — Thank you, you are candid, 
you foil, d that on no legitimate plea, 
could this in.'irriage be rendered null 
and void V 

Ahlevin. — Yes. 

Elaine. — If you still wish it, I will do 
all I can to hei}) you in the matter. The 
ui.-jrriage cannot be annulled, but if j'ou 
would like a seperation, I am willing to 
agree to it. 

Jl'Jeirin. — My dear Elaine, will you 
believe uk;, if 1 say, I would have a sep- 
eration if 1 could. 

Elaine. — Because it would not leave 
yon free to marry the woman you love. 
1 understand- I did not mean to tell you 
anything about tins letter, but the words 
of it, seem to burn my heart away. 1 
now want to say this to you, I have 
caused 3'ou sulfering enough, aud am 
willing to meet your wishes in regard to 
a separation. 

Aldewin, — ]My dear Elaine. I do not 
see what \>ould be gained by that. 
Think liow distress^-d your parents 
would be, think of tlie sorrow to all our 
friends, tliinkof little Penrl. 

Elaine. — But you would be hai)i)y 
aw.'iy from me. 

Atdev;in. — I do not want to be away 
from you, and if you are willing, it will 



23 
be better for everything io \y. occed as we 
clid before. Are you w illin^ Elaine ? 

^/ai/ie.— (Weaiily.) Yes I am wil- 
ling. 

Aldewin. — Then my dear yon had 
better go to your room, and ^ec ready 
for our departure, as the time is drawing 
near. (He puts hiS arm around her and 
leads her to doorR.L.E. she turns at the 
door looks into his face and he kisse? her. 
she exits.) 

Lody Lijn,}". (Enters L I.E. .^oonr>; 
Aldevvin is about centre.) Aldewin the 
doctor says Elaine mi ?t spend tbe win- 
ter in a warm dry climate, what do you 
say. 

Aldewin.- -Whatever you propose foi* 
Elrtiii - l::< m1. T w I'l MM 1 i-lHM>iTiilh 
ry oiii. 

Lady Lyme.- -I know you will, o.ir 
darling is fortunate to find one so good, 
so generous, and kind, (giving him her 
h.* nd.) You have taken a gre?t weight 
fro«i my mind, yet I cannot tell what 
weight lay there. You are happy then 
Aldewin? (He kiv 3sherharf\) F^''i»ie 
will never be se' ish nor inconsiderate, 
but if ever- if ever Aldewin she does 
seem to be a little tiresome, you w'U be 
patient, and gentle will you no^? 

Aldi o-i.u — I will. 

T.'fli; T.ii:-)iip.~'^-u'.\f)\ you SO mile'! 
!=h(' would tVol uiuMiJib.y word, one im- 
patient look, trom you n^ore than I c \ 
tell you. 



AWoirjia.- She slijill never have either 
one, or the other. Yon ' f^n half afraid 
to trust her with . me, but inOeed you 
need have no fea^, she ehpU come back 
to you so siron^^ bO well. £0 happy, that 
you will hardly know her. 

Lady L i.-, ".. — Listen to my prayers for 
you, ma3' heaven deal wlili yoii, as yoa 
deal with he-, may every kiod word of 
yours, bring a bleasing on you. 

AkJci'-ln.' If it b«pos^ib^eforlv;ndne « 
audcare to make her happy, she shfill he 
happy Lady Lynne you may rely upon 
that. 

Lady Lyme. You hrve made me very 
happy Aldewin for I see that you love 
Elaine. (Enter Sir John and Madolm 
L. T.E.FlMiiicniHl ^T;h1..m;i .■ " or 

traveling. Kary ha« sniaJl bbaw; t uie 
up in strap 

Elaine, — Now Sir Aldewin I am 
ready. 

Sir John. — And hero's the carriage, 
(the caiiiage drives up to C. dc- )rs back 
so as to be seen from tke front, driver in 
livery on the box iumps dovMi and opens 
the door.) 

Me loi I. — It seems so sudden Auntie, 
but I suppose it is all for the best. 

SlrJoh, Elaine »ny dear, here is a 
heavy shawl which j ou v\ iH find a :iy 
n>;(^fnl to yon on thn vo\ , . . (;.nv- Ji 'o 
her.) JMiist b>' . onic cod -[j.m;; oils p.i; . . o^ 

Ela-'iK'. — Thnnk you pnpa. (Put-* i)or 
arms around his neek kisses him Go»d 
bye.) 



ACT ni— Scc>n- First. 
The Steamer Celeste, 
(The t>leamer Cele^^te. Full stage: hor- 
izon in the brick g-round. Deck of the 
steniner is buiit up from L. I. E.' ami 
runs diaguolly up strige to Horizon on 
Flat in which tVie balance of the deck is 
painted in poi-spective. Sea cloth covers 
The rest of .he st?ig-o fj-om the side of the 
s..e:injer. The Horizon Flat is partly 
p.'iijitedon Gauze so that during- the 
:^rc scene it will be transparent. Sir Al- 
dewin, Madolin, Elaine, Captain, Sailors 
and othei's discovered on deck lounging 
about. Elaine sealed looking over the 
i?ide of the Steamer. Sliglit storm at 
rise of curtain. 

yuulolh). — (Goiiig to Elaine.) Elaine, 
do look a little happier, there is some- 
thing in your face that frightens me. I 
promisei! Lady Lymve to look well after 
you, and 1 h;ive been watching you for 
the Ijist half hour. There is misery if 
not de.'- pair, in your face. What brings 
it there. V 

Eluine. — I c-innot tell. 

^ladoLi.n. — Elaine, try to be happier, 
do try. We all love yon so. you must 
know that your smile is the very sun- 
shine of home. Let me have the iiappi- 
ness of taking you back to England 
strong and well. 

Elaine. — (aside) She cannot mean it, 
my life stands between her and her love. 
Shecaanot mean it. 



Modo//». — Do not sit here {ilone,Eluine, 
I^et me r^t.-iy with you niul tell yon what 
places we pai^s. Let me do fcOniethiiig, 
anytliing- for you, no matter what, that 
will brino- a smile to your face, and make 
you happier. 

Elaiiii'. — You are very kind to mi\ 
I l^ave a presentmenL that I shall be 
happier soon. 

^hul'liii. — Thats right. There is nor, 
one amouii'st us, who would not undergo 
a greai deal for you, Elaine, I always 
tell you so. Now let me stay here by 
yon*then yoii can notnotthink all kinds 
of gloomy ihlngs. 

Eh-iiw. — I shall be happier soon, Mad- 
olin, please go and talk to Aldewin. I 
want fo iliink, aiid 1 prefer to be alone. 

yif'poU)). — \'ery well, Klaiut", but i 
ehnll return soon, and i hope I siiall tiiid 
yoi! in botrer spirits. (going) (aside.) 
After all, ir seems kinder to watch over 
her from a distance, than to set there 
trying to ma.vc her talk, when she evi- 
dently does not care too. 

Ehiinc. — (Looking into the water.) 
Deatli is bettei' than life, suppose 1 
should fall into the sea and sink down, 
df»wn, througii those clear depths, deej - 

er, and deeper, until the waters no, 

no, I am going mad. I ask for deatn, 
madness comes in its place. Mo not 
that, (looking up to the sky) I remember 
th;it during my long illness I often 
pictured tlie golden gares ajar. A little 
hope, a little patience, and I shall be in- 



side then. 

Madolin. — Aide win, I want you to 
look at Elaine. Her face pains nie. I 
have never seen such an expre^^sion of 
tire-i sorrow. 

^[idorii). — Madolhi, Elaine lias no real 
trouble. One may do battle with real- 
ities, not with shadows. I honestly 
think «lio will be better, when she has 
been more amoiJgs! strangers. Some- 
times a cold atmosphere is more bracing 
tliana warm one. She has been so much 
indulged. 

Madolin. — You think she has been 
spoiled, and makes her own troubles. 

Aldewin. — I do not. She has a nature 
sosweet and gentle, that nothing could 
f-poil it, it might be warped for a time, 
but never spoiled. I think some serious 
trouble that none of us understands, is 
preying on her mind. People seldom 
I lie of fancies. (Thunder and lightening 
increases.) 

Captain. — Look alive, .Mates. Stand, 
clear everybody. 

MadoU.i. — oil I Aldewin, what is 
it? 

Aldexcin. — I'm afraid we are going to 
have a storm. (Goes to Elaine.)" Elaine 
you had better go into the cabin. (Goeg 
to back of the vessel.) 

MiidijUn, — Yes, come dear, let us go. 
(Storm increases.) 

Elixiue. — You and Aldewiu go i:i, 1 
prefer to sit here in the cool 
air. 



MadoUn. — Come, Elaine, you're in 
(Ijiiiger. 

Ehtine. — What \loe6 it matter. (Thun- 
derbolt strikes the ship, Madolin 
screams.) 

Captain. — Every body look out for 
themselves, the ship is loaded with oil. 
(Fire breaks out in different parts of the 
steamer, Sailors and others excit- 
ed.) 

Madolin. — (Excited.) You must be 
fi.'ived, Elaine, if every one else perishes, 
what will Auntie say. (Fire raging 
more and more.) 

Cujtain. — Xo one need fear, there 
are three boats so every one can be sav- 
ed. This part of the sea, is never with- 
out traffic, and we are sure to be pick- 
ed up. 

Aldewih.. — (Going up to a sailor.) I 
must attend to my wife but if you will 
save that lady, (points to Madolin) help 
her into the boat, and attend to her, I 
will reward you handsomely. (Elaine 
hears this.) 

Madolin. — I'll be back in one moment 
Elaine, (goes into cabin quickly, Sailors 
bu.sy lowering boats back,) 

Aldeioin. — Elaine I have made pro- 
vision for Madolin safety, you will be 
my care, I shall not be gone two min- 
ute.<, stand here and do not move, the 
smoke is so dense, that we can hardly 
see. stand just where you are, I shall 
know you, by your white vail, and keep 
your siiawl over your arm so, (fixes 



shawl.) In this din no voice can be 
heard. 

Elaine. — Kiss me Aldewin. (Re does 
so. 

Aldfiiri)). — There is no inamediate dan- 
ger, and we shall all be saved. Cour- 
age my dear, courage, (goes to the boat 
baek,)"^ 

Elaine, — (goes to the sailor Aldewiu 
has spoken to.) You must not take 
charge of that lady, here is some En- 
glish gold, (gives purse.) My husband 
A-ill see to her. (Sailor takes money and 
goos back. Madolin comes out of 
cabin to Elaine,) Are you frightened 
Madolin. 

Madolin. — No my darling, only for 
you. Thank heaven my aunt knows 
nothing of this, and will not until all 
danger is past. 
(Fire shows through gauze back. 

Elaine, — I am forgetting my instruc- 
tions, I am to follow Aide wins direc- 
tions, (takes oft' the vail.) 

MadoHn. — I will not lose sight of you 
whither you go I shall follow^ 

^Zrti'te.- -(Excitedly.) You will put 
us both in danger then, (quickly.) Al- 
dew.'n gave me every direction, he told 
me what to do with this, and this, (takeg 
vail and shawl and places them on Mad- 
olin as she had them.) When Aldewin 
comes j^ou are to put your arms around 
his neck, so, (puts arms around Madolin) 
and he will carry you safely 

Madolin. — But you, you, Elaine. 
(E1f ine kisses her quickly.) 



Elaine, — I told you I was going to be 
happier soon, now the time has come. 
Good bye. Exits back of cabin. Fire 
bursts form the cabin's roof.) 

Madolin, — (Showts.) Elaine, Elaine, 
(Aldewin rushes forward lifts madolin, 
and runs to back. General confusion 
and quick curtain.) 

Curtain. 



31 
ACT IV— Scene First. 

(Four yefirs supposed to elapse) 

(Elnine enters disguised, witli Mrs. 
Bird.) 

vs. Bird. — You had better arrange so 
rs to stay here, the walk to Brookton, is 
too much for 3'ou every day. 

Elcir,e. — I shall be pleased to do anj- 
tiling you may like. 

37;;»\i?aY?.— That's right, if you con- 
tinue to please me in the future, as you 
have for the past three weeks we shall 
get nlong all right. We have some la- 
dies visiting, and I have been very much 
hurried Intely. (Sinks into a chair.) 
I am so tired, since 10 this morning, I 
have been running afterLady Forbes. I 
wish the visits were over. 

Elaine. — Will your visitors stay long. 

Mrs. Bird. — They will stay as long as 
they can, if Lady Forbes had her way. 
Jiihe »nd her daughter would stop all to- 
gether, just to curry favor with Sir Al- 
dewin and for no other purpose in the 
world, she has been trying to make out, 
Missle's nursery faces the east, and cat- 
ches the wind. 1 do noc believe myself, 
that she knows east, from west. (Elaine 
looks alarmed) As though we would not 
do,all we could for]Missie,why we are f.'ir 
more anxious about her, than Lady For- 
be:> ever could be, 

Elaine. — Is the little one delicate. 

Mrs. Bird. — No she is strong enough. 
I should have been rhe first to h-ive ta- 
ken alarm, if there had been any cause, 



32 
There is none. Sir Aldewin is very ibnd 
of the child, and Lady Forbes knows it 
and go the ahirm is raised to make him 
think well of her. 

Elaine. — I should like to see the little 
lady. 

Mrs. Bird. — She is a lovely little crea- 
ture, (rising.) If you will come with 
me 1 will show you, your room, and as 
Ave 1 ass the nurserv you can see the 
child. (Both Exit') (Enter Lady For- 
bes and her daughter Monica. 

Luchj ForhcK. — I have never seen a 
place 1 like so much as Ash brooke, Mon- 
ica, what a rent-roll Sir Aldewdn must 
have 10 keep it up. He must be very 
werillhy. 

Monica. — He is wealthy, but his wealth 
by no means the chief thing. I like him- 
self, 1 think lie is oue of the nicest 
men I ever met, 

Lad(/ F. — That he is, do you see any 
4ldiance Monica. You have done what I 
told you, in always seeming- to be devot- 
ed to the child. 

Monica. — I like the child mamma, 
th'^e is no need for seeming. 

Lad)/ F. — So much the better my dear. 
I should say nothing could please Sir 
Aldewin more than great love for the 
little one, and she is not really a tiresome 
child. 

Monica. — She is not tiresome at all, 
she is lovely and good. 

La'.Z^ F.—( Smiling.) Of course a real 
aftection for the child is better than a 



S3 
pretended one. We have been here 
some time now, do you think there is any 
chance. Does Sir Aldewin seem to care 
for you. 

Mo-iica. — Mamma such questions are 
very tiresome to answer, I really do nut 
know, Sir Aldewin is very kind to m^, 
he talks to me, and to a certain extent 
confides in me. But I cannot be igno- 
rant of Ovie thing that he is doubly kind 
when the child is with me. 

La(^y i^.— Evidently the child, is the 
grert card you must play. (Sighs,) If 
I were but young and had your oppor- 
tunities Monica, a widower, young and 
handsome — such a house —such an in- 
come, and a child to work on his feel- 
ing, j with, my dear were I in your place, 
I should be Lady Carelton in less than 
six weeks. 

Monica. — I wish you would not speak 
in that way mamma, I do not like it. 
You make such a business of marriage, 
that it would not be wonderful if I dis- 
liked it all together and gave it up in de- 
spair. I have some heart, although you 
never seem to think so. 

Lady F. — (Smiling.) My dear Monica 
to do any real good in this world, to at- 
tain any real postition. you should do 
away with all heart, I must say that 
looking back on the experience of a life 
time, I have never known a woman with 
a heart succeed. Sir Aldewin has net 
actually made love to you then, 

Monica. — Xo, hehas been very kind 



. ..'J 
irui 



34 
but wo rtlways talk about little Pearl. 
He is vi ally interested when I talk about 
her, but not so much in other matters. 

Lfhi'j F. — Do you ever mention your- 
self to him in any way ? Do you think 
there is any one else for whom he 
cares "? 

Mo7iHff. — lam afraid so mamma, there 
is a ' on sin of his late wife. He speaks 
of her ver}^ often. Little Pearl calls her 
Aunt Lina, and I have fancied at times 
that he like > her vei y much indeed. He 
has another tone in his voice when he 
speaks of her. 

Lady F. — You mean Madolin Loraine 
There is nothing in that, you need fear 
no rival there, I'm sure. 

Monica. — Whj^ mamma, what makes 
3'ou think so ? 

Ladu F. — I know that Lord Braden is 
in love with her. 

Monica. — She may not be in love with 
him, the ©ne fact need not obviate the 
other. Two men may easily be in love 
with one girl, especially if she be an at- 
iract^veone. Rely upon it, that if I 
have a rival tofear,it is this Miss Loraine 
and not the young wife that is dead, yet 
at times I am be\Nildered, for I think 
that he loved her too. 

Lady F. — He thinks a g]-eat deal of his 
If^st wife I am sure, and is not to be won- 
dered at (enter Aide win C.) 

Aldewin. — I come to see if you would 
like ^o take a drive ladies, it is such a 
bea itifnl dav. 



3o 
Lcd'j F. — MoiJ'c:t can do <<s she Nvill, 
youth is CO Lu age oils we know. for myself, 
' shrink fromihe wtivm sun. She may 
"njoy it. 

'A!'(b'ii-/i'. — Will yoii go. Mis.s Mo 
ica V 

IMuninu — (Nmiling.) I will go with 
1 he utmost pie. .sure, on two condition-*. 
Theiirstis that you allow me to take 
^t Jle Penvl in the ix)ny-ehaise, the sei-- 
odd that you diive ns yourself, I would 
i!Ot Y\-k ^'o^.r litth^ hcgc . w .'h nnv O'lc 
p|-e, 

L'jlyF. — (;»-lde.) Wliataelever girl, 
he really oi'g.i. t > aporeeiate I'e^. 

^l'<'V"://'.--i will i'KVr you \\ I:*i p! - 
ure, and Pe;rii ^^ ■'! he deii'>'h':.'d. But 
Avonld it not bel;;^.l • i > t;' ie the open 
('•'i'li.ige y Tijeii T/idv ForluM (-"H'ld go 
\\ iih n<. 

FAidy F. — (smilino-.j Yon are" vei v 
kind, Mild I nin muc.i tlatT.ved Sir Aid' 
win, QUI so wjiiin asunniight lay me u^. 
I tiiink Monica r.!>h. hut she nlway liiv- 
ed sunshine. 

Mo;//fr/. — Sodoos lii.Ie Pe.nrl. 1 will 
go and get my gloves and hat ;ind be 
with you in ten minules. (Exir C) 

Ladfi /-'.--And you ean remain here, 
until she reiurns. 

Ahlooi'n. — Wi.h pleasure. (Sits 

down.) 

Lea-;/ F. — By the way Sir "^-ildewi. , 
whnt has become of that beautitul Mi i 
Loraine, whom Lorl Br.iden' lov i 
well. 



AlO'vln. — VVliotoM you Lady For'je^, 
tliat J>oi'{i IJvaden \v;io Mi-.s Loraines 
lover. 

Kiiilij F. — E . eiy one who knows Lord 
Braden, knows thai, I heard him speak 
oiiee of Miss Lor.itne. He said Jittle,l3ut 
I saw fro II the exi)ression of his face, 
t /Kit he loved hei . 

AJdeicih. — It is all nonsense," and a 
mistake. Miss Loraitie has no lover. 
Lord Braden lias no hope in that quar- 
ter 1 should .y, theywe-e o^l friend*? 
that was all. 

La(!i F, — I never met her but once, 
hut I thought she \,as a br^au.ful girl, 
your wife must liave been very much a - 
rac'icd ( ) he v. 

' Aldeicu/. — Yes they loved eaeh other 
very much, they were mor.^ like sisters 
than cousins, MissLoraine was devot- 
ed to Lady Caileton. 

Lodt/ F,- -And now that Lady Carel- 
ton is (lead I suppose Miss Lora'ne takes 
a great interest in little Pearl. 

Aid' i>:i,i. — LittlePearl is a great conso- 
lation to us all. 

Lo'lij F. — 1 shall feel quite anxious 
about tliC little darling when we goaway 
!Sir Aldewin, jou must be quite sure 
rbut she does not «'o amongst the se - 
vants. It is so dirricult to manage un- 
less there is a lady at the head of the 
iiouse. 

Aldawiii, -Mrs. Bird is very carefr!. 
she doe j not allow any undue famili.a*- 
ity. But they are all so fond of the 



c'liild t'liit it is (lifin-nlt to koep lier : way 
tVoiu tlieiii. 

Laclii F, — Difficult yes, but it must be 
done. Mrs. Bird is most praise v,Oi- 
thy r know, but really no one can nrjn- 
age, or understand those things, but ti 
bidy. 

Ahlewiii. — Perhaps you are right. 

Ladu F.-'( Aside.) Which is it Mon- 
ica or Miss Loraine (aloud,) I wish 
Miss Loi-jiine would ui.'ike us a call be- 
fore we leave. 

Al<J<ii:t.i. — I expect Mi.-^ Lor.iine lo- 
div, to see Pear'. 

y.'.v<'./ /'\--I\ii sogiad. I shall be de- 
l\£i"ht xl to see her. ( Knters Monica 
wi.ii 1 t^Mid gloves ) 

Mc, '■ '.-->NOWhir Aide win I'm ready. 

All iri.i. — (Pising.) Then let ns 
stai c at o.ce, woirt you go with us 
Lac'y Fori ?sV 

Ladii F. — Only as far as the door to 
tee von off. ("Kxitall C. Enter Mrs, 
Bird aid Flaiae.) 

Mi'fi.Buc. — (To Elaine.) One of the 
servants has made a large rent in these 
beai.Uiud curt.anfe, which Sir Aldewiu I- 
so proud of. If Lady Furbes tinds it 
out I shall never hear the last of it. Do 
vou think you could mend it, Mr.-. 
Moore ? 

£■ // /e. — I will wiih pleasure if I can, 
what rati [ do. 



Jlrs. Birr? — Tiike some of this colored 
silk, (gi\'es it toElaaie,) ;'. Ivy to re- 
pf^'rit. I think Avi-.h great care you 
might mann<i:e+«i do i ,, .<ot} .t it would 
never be noticed. 

i7/an?e.— I will do mybest. (Goes to 
the cu»"t:'ins.) 

Mrs, Bird. — Very well, I will leave you 
alone then. (Exit.) 

I'.iaine. — A\hat would I not give to see 
my de:ir mother and father. lean realize 
now what they have sutlered in losing 
me, since I now know what it is to 
lose my child. (Pearl laughs outside 
and runs.) 

Pearl.— {on C.) I'm ready, Papa, 
(stops and looks at Elaine half frighten- 
ed.) 

Elaine. — (Great emotion, holding out 
her hands.) My darling, con-e to me. 

Ptarl, — (Advances timidly. Elaine 
hugs her and kisses her passionately.) 
Papa's going to take me riding, did you 
see hiUi. 

Elaine. — No darling, put your arms 
around my neck, (she does so.) my baby, 
(short pause). Say Mamma darling. 

Pearl. — (^Vo^denngl3^) Mamma. 

Elaii<". — .._y God! (kisses Pearl pas- 
sionately, tiien recollecting heiself.) 
My (- -ar, will you tell me your name. 

PearL — I have three names. 

Elaine. — AVhat are they. 

Pearl. — I am Victoria — Papa says it 
is my right nanie. But most every body 
calls me Pearl and the servants call me 



S9 
W :ie. that is three names. 

LMinc. — You are very ricli to hayt- 
three names, nn^ beautiful darling. 

Pearl. — I have three names, but 1 lu-ivo 
no mamma. 

Ehi.iHe.—iVevy 8iK\\y.) No Mamma V 
Pearl. — My mammti has gone to heav- 
en, 

Elaine. — To heaven, my darling V 
Pearl. — Y ^ heaven is ^ 'lere, a long, 
long way otf. 

Elaine. — Will you c»me and speak to 
me sometimes? i have lost a little girl, 
just like you, my swee*:. 

Pearl. — Did she go t© heaven V 
Elaine. — She is away from me, my 
darlino-, a fair little child just like you. 
Slie will go to heaven sometime, 
Barbara. — (Out.^ide calls.) Pearl. 
Elaine. — (Very passionately.) My 
darling will y©u with your own lips, 
kiss me he. e, dear, on my face, this poor 
dark f<cet'ial has no beauty left. Oh 
my little love, kiss me here. (Pearl puts 
h^rarms around Elaine's neck and kiss- 
es her.) Go, my darling, your nurse is 
calling yoa. (Penrliuns oft'C.) Tliank 
heaven, thank heaven, thrit I have once 
more spoken to my little child. ( wiping 
away her tears.) But 1 mus: not let the 
servants see any traces of tears. (Goes 
to her work, Mr*. Bird enic.o smilino-.) 
Jflra. JJira. — 1 have ni:iue 2Ii!>> ic- - 
smile a little less brightly t;.. tiiOi >• 'm-;. 
I dislike her a© uuich a.s 1 Jo .k r ut. » 
She came into the nur^erv, all s/n 



be 
dresLed, because she was goiug U) ttike 
her out, and Papa would drive them. and 
I said to myself, no, papa shall not orive 
you, so I did a mean thing. 1 went to 
Sir Aldewin and told him that 1 thought 
a )on;4 c'l Ive to-day would not be good 
for little Pearl. Lady Forbes lost three 
of her children Sir Aldewi7\ mine have 
all grow.i up well and strong I answer- 
ed. You can't imagine how frightened 
he looked. He sent word to the nur- 
sery that Misiie might play on the lawn, 
but was not to ^,0 out for a drive. I 
am sure she won't enjoy the ride, as it 
will te >ch her that Sn- Aldewin cares for 
his little daughter and not lor her. 

EluAtie. — Then the child is not going 
ouf. 

.'/>•. Bird. — No indeed, and I am very 
glad, IS Miss Madolin has come and she 
is so foiid of little M.issie. 

A'iauii\ — (aside.) Madolin here? 

JJis. Bird. — I just came for my glass- 
es have you seen them. Ah here ihey 
are (Picks shem up from table.) If 
yo.i IK -l anything, Mrs.?.loore, ring the 
bell. (Ex'tsC.j 

Bhiiite. — Madolin here, if she should 
lecognize me. The ;-cene when we part- 
ed i< i:^- i)cfore me, I can see the red 
llames. the darkening skj' and the star- 
light waters. Madolin's beautifid face 
gazing mistfulh' at me, the shawl of the 
crimson and gold, and the white vail 
.shinino-iii the liuiitof the confla2:ration. 



H 
IfIcoal(ll)Ut forget it ull. If lieaveii 
would only h\' luercUal, and let me for- 
get everything, but the love of my child, 
(Madolin enters C. Elaine picks up her 
work.) 

Jladoli)!. — Mrs. Moore the house keep- 
er tells me tha vou sew verr neatlv. is it 
trre? 

Elaine. — I endeavor to do so, 

Mcdolui, — I have brought some muslin 
and l;;?e.>, that my frieiid Lady Lynne 
v;tlues yery highly. She wished me to 
see that some j)iett »" dresses were made 
for h' ie 3li; -j Pea x could you manage 
\i a 'oyou think? 

Elaine. — (Brightening up.) I will try 
my best. 

Mml<Ai)i.—V tidnk the child will look 
so i>retty in light muslin r'ld laf^ dr- s- 
es. Slu' has aiwa.vs worn black until 
now. It was a terribly sad thing for 
tho poor child »o loce her mother at so 
early an age, (Opjns I-ees and (', sigh- 
ing.) Poor L;uiy Lynne she pi..3er\ed 
all these beautiful laces for yeaxs, intend- 
ing to give them io her daughter, little 
Pearl's mother, who was lost at sea some 
four years ago. 

Etui ce. — (Agitated.) Did Lady Lynne 
grieve ve.y much over her daugh- 
ter ? 

.^/<f(/"//);.— More tlian I coidd describe. 
[ do not think she has laughed once 
since her loss, 'i'hey sit all dtiy, she and 
Sir 'fohn, t. Iking about their child, re- 
lating anecdotes to cr^h other of lier 



t^oodnessand her beauly. Little Pearl 
will be very 1^'K'e her. 

Eld i.c>-,- -And Sir John, has he trou- 
bled aboiU" her ? 

-1/(f'«^^o/(*.;.--Txonble is a mild word, she 
was the very erre of his heart, an only 
child atid siich a beautiiul one. how 
I'otild they do ollieiwlse th.n bewail 
the-r terrible bereavement. I was with 
her when she was lost, and I would have 
^"ven ivv o.ily I'vec, if 1 had had them to 
Sc ve hers. 

Elc:. '■. — (aside.) If she knew all, 
/^earl. — (Euns on C.) Oh auntie, 
P?pa wor""!." take me ndino-. 

Jiadolin — A> oaldn't he, darling? Well, 
never mind; you and I will go out some 
dav. 

Fearl — (Looking at laces) What are 
tl se for, Ann tie y 
Madoh::i—'T9 make you some dressgs. 
Fearl — Won't I look nice ? 
MadoJir --Yoii «hall have some nice 
dresses if you will give me three kisses. 
(Pearl pul^s her arms around her and 
kisses her. Flaine very much moved.) 
Peavi — (Folds out her arms to Elaine, 
aft^rasboit p.ai^e) I remember you; 
you kissed me and cried over me. (Mad- 
olin kM->ks astonished). 

EWde — Yes, I did cry over her; I 
could noii help it. 

Mculol ',i—\ ou are a widow ? 
Elaine — (Almost sobbing) I have lost 
Dry husband; and I loved him very 
much. 



4"^ 

2frc^oli.i—(KhuMy) And your little 
child'? Is she f'ead? 

Ela'ue—X have lost her. 

Madoiiri — You have snflered a great 
de. 1 for one so young. How soiiy I am. 
And that is why you love ibis little one 
so much? I understand. I have great 
sympathy for those who have lost their 
dear friends by death. I suffered so 
much when my cousin, this dear child's 
mother, died. 

Fearl — My mother is in heaven, 

Jfccloli,i--Y on must come and st^e lit- 
tle Miss Pearl sometimes. They say 
that mothers, who have lost children, 
love all other children for the lost one's 
sake. Is it so? 

Elaine — I believe it. The happiest 
moment that has come to me since I lost 
my little girl, was when I saw Miss 
Pearl. 

P6'«?V--I like you, too, Elaine, 

Maaolin -(Looking steadily at Elaine) 
You remind me so much of some one, 
and I cannot think who it is. 

EU'i.ie — (sadly; I hope there are not 
many people I'ke me. 

MadoUn — Your voice and your ges- 
luies are familiar to me. I cannot, how- 
evei, tell who it is th^ityou resemble. 

Barbara — (enters; Sir Aldewin has 
leLurned, and wants little Missie. 

Pearl — Oh, Pa^^a, (liuns off with 
Barbara.) 

J/adolin — You see how dearly she 
loves her Papa? I'M go now, Mrs. 
Moore, and to-morrow we w ill commence 
on the dresses for Pearl. (Exit.) 



Elaine — If it was possible for her to re- 
cognize me, she would have done so be- 
fore now. But I shall keep away from 
her as much as possible. I must get this 
curtain done before Mrs. Bird returns. 
(Goes to her work. Aide win comes out 
of the house and crosses the lawn to rus- 
tic seat beneath the tree R. Elaine 
looks out of the window.) My husband, 
and I love him so well. It is so hard. 
This beautiful home which might have 
been mine, which is mine by rights, will 
never know me as its mistress. If Mad- 
olin only knew all. 

Madolin — (Comes out of the house and 
speaks to Aide win) Where is Lady 
Forbes, Aldewin? 

Aldewin — (Rising) Gone with tke fair 
Monica to make some call, in which she 
declared I ought to join them ; but I 
knew better. I said to myself that I 
would choose the opportunity for half an 
hour's quiet rest with you. 

yiu(^(din — (gently) Aldewin, I am not 
unreasonable, but I have told you before 
that you must not make love to me in 
your own house, while I am a guest 
under your roof. 

Aldeioin — Then, my dearest Madolin, 
the sooner you leave my roof, as you 
call it, the better ; so that t may follow 
you. For make love to you, I must. It 
IS not new love making, you know. 

Madolin — That it most certainly is not. 

Aldeunn — Madolin, what a love story 
ours has been. I should . think tliat no 
two lovers ever split upon such a rock. 



45 

JIadolin — Do not talk about it, Aide- 
win; I wish we could forget it. i(Alde- 
win kisses her hand passionately. El- 
aine drops her work.) 

Elaine — If Icould only leave this plaee» 
The green leaves and fragrant flowers 
are more to them than I am. 

Madolin — Aldewin, if you do that 
again I shall go home. You forget that 
I am your guest. 

Aldeicin — I remember that you are my 
first, last, and only love. 

Madolin — Oh, Aldewin, does ;-Ot the 
sunshine take you back to those days in 
Italy ? I Avonder if ever, for one-half 
hour, I shall forget Elaine. 

Aldewin—Voor, beautiful Elaine. No, 
Madolin. you maybe quite sure that we 
shall never forget her, I think of her 
every day, and every hour. Think of 
her with a passion of soriow and de- 
spair and love. Poor Elaine. 

Elaine — (agitated. )Dear heaven; if 
they only knew all. If they t^oulJ only 
guess it. 

Madolin — In my thoughts I go over 
the scene fifty times each day. I wake 
in the night.'it is always present to me ; 
her beautiful, sad, loving face, as she 
kissed me and said, I am going to be hap- 
pier than I have ever been. She must 
have suffered much to make her long for 
death. 

Aldevnn — Do not talk about it, Mado- 
lin ; I have never wished the poor child 
any harm ; yet her innocent love has 
jjeen the bane of my life, 

Elaine — I did not thnk I could suffer 



46 ^^ 

more. I was mad to come here. I 
knew he did not love me. Why should 
Ihave tortured myself. I knew he car- 
ed for Madolin. I have been the bane of 
his life, and all because 1 loved him too 
well. 

Aldewin — I do not remember, Mado- 
lin, ever to have heard a story like ours, 
either in history, fiction, or every-day 
life. It is all over now. We both did 
our duty nobly to Elaine while she lived. 
Xow we must'forget her — that is, forget 
all the pain uud sorrow, and only re- 
member that we tried to make her happy. 
Madolin — (sobbing) If I could do that. 
Aldeicin — Try, Madolin, will you? 
J/rtdo/jw— Yes, Aldewin. 
Aldewin— Froimse me now that you 
will be my wife. 

Madolin — Oh, Aldewin, I — 
Aldewin— 'Vhuik, dailing, how long we 
have waited; how patient I have been. 
Now make me happy, will you, Mado- 
lin •? 

Madolin (giving him her hand) Yes, 
Aldewin. ( lie kisses her.) 

Elaine Oh, heaven! why did you 
spare my life, when 1 would rather have 
lost it? 

Fearl (running down) Oh, papa! 
Aldewin My darling, come here. (She 
does so) Pearl, I have something to give 
you to-day. 

Pearl You dear, good papa. 
Aldewin Somethtng that you will 
love very much, Pearl; a great, wonder- 
ful treasure. 

Pearl What is it, papa? A rocky- 
horse ? 

Aldewin (laughing) I am going to 



^7 
giv« you a new mamma : u kind aiul 
ceautiful mamma, who will love you 
very much. 

Feat I (wonderingly.) A new mam- 
ma ? (Look.< up to the sky.) 

Madolin (taking Pearl in her arm,*.) 
I understand her, Aldewin; she is won- 
dering about her own mamma. Your 
own mamma is in heaven, Pe,-jrl, far 
away in the blue sky. Your mamma 
lives' there, my darling, and you must 
always love her the best, always the best. 

Pearl I will. 

Aldewin See, Pearl, this is your new 
mamma. Kiss her, and tell her you will 
always be a good child. 

Pearl I will be good. 

AldeAoin Now, my darling, [ will not 
have one more tear. From this time on 
we will have all smiles. Come, let us go 
in, (Takes Pearl in his arms and they 
exit inio the house.) 

Elaije — Little Pearl's new mamma. 
Oh, human love; so soon grown cold; so 
soon to change; so quick to die. (Enter 
Lady Forbes and Monica.) 

Lady Forbes — Haye you seen Miss Bri- 
erton ? 

Elaine — I saw her in the garden. 

Lady F — Was she alone? (sharply) 
was she alone? I ask you because it 
seems so strange that Miss Loraine w.-s 
invited here to meet us, and we never 
spend ten minutes of the day with her. 

J^/oHica— Mrs. Moore, why do you not 
answer Lady Forbes, vou hear her ques- 
tion ? 



4S 

Elaine — (quietly) Iain quite williiitj; 
to answer. When I saw Miss Loraine, 
Sir Aide win was talking to her. 

Lo'hi /^—(spitefully)" I thought as 
much; indeed, I felt quite sure of it. 
Poor little Pearl ; she will soon be as 
much forgotten as her mother is. 

Elaive. -I am sure you are mistaken. 
Miss Lorain loves Missie. 

Lady F — (laughing) I am glad you 
think so. (EL-nne turns to her work.) 



49 

Elaine, — Madolin. 

Madol in. —Mrs. Moore, what is the 
matter? 

Elaine.— (crying passionately) Mado- 
lin! 

Madolin. —Who are you? You who 
come to me with Elaine's voice and a 
stranger's face ? In the name of heaven, 
who are you? (Elaine crying, does not 
answer.) Who are you? (Takes Elaine 
by the hands and looks into her face 
steadily.) I am alarmed. In the name 
of heaven who are you ? There is some- 
thing familiar, yet strange, in your face. 
You «peak to me with Elaine's voice. 
For mercy's sake, answer me, who are 
you? 

Elaive.r—'M.&doWn, do you not know 
me? 

Madolin. — If it were not that I knew 
her to be dead, I would say that you were 
Lady Carleton. 

Elaine. — (humbly.) I am Lady Carle- 
ton, wretched, most miserable, most un- 
happy Elaine, 

Madolin, (throws her oft'. — You are not 
Elaine ; you are an impostor. You have 
assumed the expression of her face, the 
tone of her voice. But Lady Carleton 
lies dead under the sea. 

Elaine. Fervently. — Would to heaven 
she did ? 

Madolin, (goes up and looks into her 
fuce.)— It you are Elaine, Elaine come 
back from the dead, what am I ? 



51 
minutes I will tell you all. (They both 
sit down.) 

Elaine.~l know, Madolin, that Aide- 
win loved you, and my only wish was to 
die, so that you might be free to marrv 
him. Oh, Lina, why did you bring him 
to me on that fatal night six years a^o'^ 
Why did you not say, ''he loves me, ?nd 
we are to be married !" I should have 
been pleased that you were to be happy. 
VV hy did you not do it, Madolin ? 

MadfAin.—lt seemed to me that com- 
plying with your wish would save vour 
life. 

^/ame.--My life? my life has been 
nothing but a torment and a torture to 
me. Why did you care to save that ? 

Madolin.— Yon were all the world to 
us. Let nie understand; you gave up 
your chance of life for me, hoping that 
11 you died Sir Aide win would marry me ^ 
^Zrtme.— -That is what I hoped and be- 
lieved. 

Madolin.—Then, when you found your 
lite was saved against your will, you re- 
solved to remain dead to the world, and 
never let us know you lived ? But tell 
me, how did you escape ? 

Elaine.— ShoTtly after I left vou on the 
burning steamer, I was struck on the 
head by ;. falling spar,and the next thino- 
I remember I was on board of a French 
vessel bound for Toulon. 
Madolin.— ^nt how did vou get there ^ 
Elaine.— '\:hQY said thev found me 
lashed to a plank in charge of a sailor 



52 
and the moment they pieked us up. the 
sailor died from heart disease, brought on, 
no doubt, by the excitement he had gon* 
through. I was put under the care of 
an old French woman, who, when we 
reached Toulon, took me to her own 
house, and cared for me through a long 
fever, and when I recovered I found she 
had cut all my haii off. 

Madolin. — What a pity I 

Elaine. — It had to be done, she said, to 
save my life. It was not long before I 
was suificiently recovered to move from 
my little room, and then I looked into 
the state of my finances. I found 1 had 
over 50 pounds in English money. My 
watch and chain, ear-rings, and a valu- 
able brooch were all preserved. I could 
not remain in Toulon, so I went to Paris, 
and there I disposed of all my jewelry, 
which brought me quite a sum. I found 
by living economically that I would have 
enough to support me for three or four 
years. I spent most of my time in Paris, 
thinking of my child, until at last I could 
stand it no longer. I thoroughly dis- 
guised myself, came here and applied for 
some plain sewing, with what result you 
already know. 

Madolin. — But, Elaine, having done all 
this, why go to your husband's house, of 
all places in the world ? 

Elaine. — Can you not fancy, do you 
noi know, that there is one love, above 
all other loves, the love that lives? I 
was possessed by it. My heart was hun- 



53 
giy, thu-sty, lo/igiiig to see little Pearl 
to hear her speak. It was a passionat, 
iiong'mg that consumed me by night ane 
ly tiay. It dragged me here, eved 
n my will. 1 went because I coulb 
not helj) it. 1 thought the longing would 
ce^^e, !fl looked only once on "her. I 
thought my mind would crow calm, but 
it tl'diio.. When I had kissed her little 
f_p I could not leave her. This dear 
love of one's child is the love that lives, 
t''!.':j-.ily .ue love. 

wJIcuV'U'n. — To think that I have been 
O't'i 3'<^u, spoken to you, and never rec- 
g n-'^^e'^ you; and, bh, Elaine, I gave 
you m ~>iiey, you allowed me to do that ! 

E(aiii«\--I would not part with that 
l)c.nk note for anything. How 1 kissed 
it and cried over it I 

JIadolin. — Still I cannot see why, hav- 
ing made this r:^soIve to be dead to us all, 
you should break it. 

Elaine. — Madolin, I have never shown 
so much love for you as in this moment, 
when I give up my cherished secret to 
you, to save you from a marriage which 
yet would be no marriage. 
Madolin. — I thank you. 
Elaine. — I trust you with my secret, 
but it must never pass your lips. You 
nuist keep it for me as you would guard 
the honor of your own soul. This mar- 
ririge can never be now, and you must 
break it off,without letting any one know 
why. It will be hard, I know, but you 
will hot sutler as I do standing between 
vou. 



ii7« me. —(dictating) Dear Sir Aldewin, 



Madolin. — I believe it. Oh, Elniiie, 
fiom all the world, why have we both 
cho^eM one love? You can not spend 
your life in this disguise; there must 
come an end to it at last. Let me per- 
suade you to end this secrecy, and resume 
j^our name and place in the world. I 
will help you so that it can be done with- 
out any scandal or sensation. I will go 
abroa 1 with you and send for Sir Alde- 
^vin. We will give the world a story 
which shall satisfy it. Will vou consent, 
Elaine? 

Elaine. — I cannot. I could never en- 
dure it, to live with my husband again, 
J^nowing that I am a burden and a misery 
to him. 

Madolin, — But if he loved you? 

Elaine. r-iVtmfi brightening.) If he 
loved me, and wished me back, yes. But 
that time will never come. 

Madolin. — Time alone will tell; you 
have acted wisely in speaking to me now, 
but I do not approve of your keeping 
such a secret. But oh Elaine, how shall 
I break it to Aide win ? 

Elaine, — Go to him boldly and tell him 
this marriage must not take place. 

Madolin. — But he will demand an ex- 
planation. 

Elaine. — Tell him you can give him 
none. 

Madolin. — I cannot,! have not the cour- 
age. 

Elaine. — Then write and tell him. 

Madolin. — (Pauses a moment.; I will 
and at once. (Goes to table on which are 
pens, ink and paper.) What shall I say 
to him (sits at table.) 

Elaine. — (dictating) Dear Sir Aide win, 



MlJl.J i - .Mv'..'j!»'d 

.'.Ml, . «fn ft'>v<j 









• (.i^Idut J« «JJr.^ mid 



55 
OLii- marriaore cannot take place. You 
must accept my decision nothing in the 
^;ji'y can induce me to change it. 
fMadohn writes and puts letter in envel- 
ope and seals it. Elaine rings the bell 
servant appears C.) 

^Zoine.— (handing letter.) Deliver 
this to Sir Aldewin. (Servant takes let- 
ter and exiti C. Madolin leans on the 
table and buries her face in both hands 
Elaine looks at her for a moment and 
throws her arms around Madolin and 
kisses her, then exits C. very slowlv, 
looking steadily at Madolin who does not 
move.) 

Madolin.— {Alone) I could not have 
done it myself. I should neither have 
had the courage, the originality, nor the 
force of will to carry me through such 
an ordeal. Truly it was the love that 
lived— the love that could not die, that 
e::isted when all other was dead. 

^/detom.— (enters C. humedly)Mado- 
lin, I will not ask you what this letter 
means, (holds letter in his hand ;) it can 
mean nothing ; there is no power on earth 
that can take you from me. 

Madolin. — Hush, you must not sav. 
that. ^' 

Aldewin. — You have given me your 
promise and not for anything will I con- 
sent to release you, say what you will. 

J/ac?o?««,— (Sadly.) It can never be 
Aldewin; 
Aldewin.— WiW you tell me why? 
Madolin. — No, I cannot. I can only 
tell you this that there is an insurmount- 
able barrier, what it is I am pledged by 
my oath never to reveal 

Aldewin.— AW you say seems weak and 
foolish to a man with a desperate love, 
and a desperate purpose. I am speaking 



Ilii 



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56 
harshly to you,Mndolin . 1 cannot help 
it. I love yon too well to think of losing 
yon with ealmness. I have hanJly j)a- 
tience to ask if it be any absnred idea 
about my — abont Elaine . You have 
never disapproved of second marriages, 
have yon ? 

Miiddh'n.r—'Nc), never. 

Aid'' wi 11. r-lh^\e you heard anythiuo: 
about me, any slander which I could set 
Rlrai?^ht, any lie, any fabrication that I 
can contradict V 

Madflf.). — I have never lieard one 
word a^uinst yon in all ray life. I would 
not listen to one. 

Aldewin — Then what is it? Clear up 
the mystery ; trust me, it shall not be in 
vain, * 

Madolin, — (Looking earnestly at him,) 
Aldewin,! have always loved you. I love 
you now as well as ever, but I tell you, 
dear,that if a grave were there, and t lay 
in it, silent, motionless, dead, I could 
not be parted iVom you more completely 
than I am now, and the great Power who 
hears me speak, knows that I am telling 
the truth. We must part and I can never 
tell you the reason why. 

Aldewin. — You are cruel to me Mado- 
]iu. 

JIadolin.-l am more cruel to myself— a 
thousand times more. It is harder for 
me to say go than for you to hear it. I 
may say this to you. Aldewin, that per- 
haps in the years to come, you may know 
why I have done this, then you will have 
nothing but blessings for me. 

Aldewin. — (Impatiently) 1 will not 
hear you, you are to be my wife and I 
will claim you. 



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57 
.¥ado?m.— Listen to me one moment. 
The reason that seperates us is so grave 
that, if I thought you would not take my 
word- if I thought that after all I have 
said to you, you would still claim the 
fulfillment of my promise,! should leave 
England, and go where you could never 
find me. 

^^dfeiom.— (Gently) Madolin, I have 
faith in you. Heaven knows, yet strange 
thoughts come to me. Have you ever 
loved any one but me V 

Madolin.— I can give you no answer, 
neither is there any need to reply to such 
a question. 

Aldewin. — Were our acquaintance a 
short one I should certainly say that you 
had been married before and that your 
husband had come to light again. 

Madolin. — You must think what you 
will. I have told you what my consci- 
ence, ray honor and yours, compel me to 
eay ; I can do no more. 

^/de?.oin.— (Crossing angrily.) You 
have never loved me; 1 cannot tell why 
you should have deceived me. I begin 
to wonder that 1 have been such a dupe. 
When first of all you were to marry me, 
you forced me to marry some one else, 
you placed the matter before me in such 
a light that I could not refuse, and now 
you do the same thing in another fash- 
ion. Y'ou refuse to marry on some pre- 
text or other that you cannot even name, 
(crossing.) 

Madolin.— YoM will be sorry in the 
time to come that you have spoken so 
angrily to me. 

Aldeioin. — 1 am sorry now. Can you 
not see that I am half mad with wonder 
and dismay ? Must it be so, Madolin ? 
can neither tears, prayers, or anything 



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Modolin— XP we must say 2:00 1-bye. AMew 
Aldewin— (takes her hand) You can look at me 
nd mean it? 

Madolin— I do mean it. (Looks steadily in his 
face,) 

Aldewin— (throws off her hand) Then I will 
never look at the face of a woman again! [Exit 
R C, quickly.] 

Madolin— It was better so, my love. We have 
parted in anger, we could not have parted in 
tears. Good bye, my love, good bye! (Looks off 
C. after Aldewin. Exits in opposite direction.) 

Mrs. Bird— (Enters D. L. with Elaine and rings 
bell.) I am very glad you will take little Missie 
out, Mrs. Moore, as she needsjexercise, and the 
walk will do her good. (Barbara enters C.) 

Barbara— Did you ring, Mrs. Bird? 

Mrs. Bird— Yes; Mrs. Moore is going to take 
Missie for a walk. Bring her here! [Barbara 
exits C] I've heard yen say you were fond of 
flowers, Mrs. Moore; you may gather some as 
y®u pass through the garden, if you like. 

Elaine-Thank you; you are very kind. 

(Barbara enters C. with Pearl, who runs to 
Elaine. Elaine kneels by her and kisses her as 
she is fixing her bonnet . ) Do you want to go 
walking with me? 

Aldewin— (Enters C. quickly, sees the child 
and goes to her. Elaine shrinks back.) Come, 
my dear, I am going for a ride. (Takes the 
child in his arms.) 

Elaine— Are you going to drive the new pair, 
Sir Aldewin? 

Aldewin— Yes. 

Elaine— Then I beg of you not to take the 
child. Oh, do believe me, it will not be saf 4," 



he is so young, so timid; do not take her; pray 
leave her here! 

Aldewin--If I thought there was any danger, I 
should not take her. I require no one, Mrs. 
Moore, to teach me my duty as regards my child. 

Elaine— You do not understand, you do not 
see the danger, and I do. Sir Aldewin, she must 
not go. 

Aldewin— You are very good to be so anxious 
about her, although it is no compliment to me . 
But you must understand that I brook no inter- 
fereRce. 

Elaine— Pray remember that if you were to 
lose command of the horses for one moment 

Aldewin — I am obliged to you, but I permit no 
interference. (Half turns to go.) 

Elaine— (Passionately snatches the child from 
him.) The child has no mother here to act in 
her behalf, Sir Aldewin, and I say she must not 
go! 

Aldewin— (Takes the child; she does not re- 
sist.) lam going to teach her how to drive. 
Mrs, Moore, you have exceeded your duty . I 
win consider whether I can overlook your con- 
duct. I am inclined to think not. It is an insult 
to me to suppose that I would endanger my 
child . (Exits C. with the child and nurse . ) 

Mrs. Bird— (touches Elaine on the shoulder.) 
You have a kind, tender heart. Cheer up; the 
child is the apple of his eye, and he will see that 
no harm comes to her. 

Elaine — (stretching her arms towards C. D.) 
Oh, tjie loving little child . (Crying.) 

Mrs. Bird— If she were your own child you 
could not take on more. 

Elaine— My own child? (wildly) My God! (Ex- 
its C.) 

Mrs. B^rd— (Goes up C, looks after Elaine and 
then comes down L. C,) Poor lady, how strange- 
ly she acts ! 



Servant— (Enters f.) L >rd Briidon. 

Braden— (Enters C.) Ah, Mrs. Bir 1, delighted 
to see you! (shakes hands.) 

Mrs. Bird— This is an unexpected visit, my 
lord. 

Braden— True, but as I leave England next 
week, I thought I would run down and say 
good-by . Is Sir Aldewin not at home? 

Mrs. Bird— He has just gone out for a drive. 

Braden— And Madolin, has she gone with him? 

Mrs. Bird— He took no one but his child. 

Braden— I stopped on ray way here to see the 
Lynnes. Poor old couple, they are not recon- 
ciled yet to the loss of their child. They told 
me that Madolin was here, and would soon be 
married to Sir Aldewin . 

Mrs. Bird— We all thought so, but not an hour 
ago Sir Aldewin gave orders that the house de- 
corations should go no furthe r. 

Braden— (surprised) Why, Mrs. Bird, what do 
you mean? Surely he intends to marry. 

Mrs. Bird — This morning when I asked him a 
question, he seemed all upset, and said "I do not 
understand; ask me when I return." I was 
afraid that he had had news that distressed him. 
The servant told me that he received a letter and 
that when he opened it he was for some time 
like one stupefied. I am sorry, for there is no 
better master living than Sir Aldewin, (Mado- 
lin screams outside. Aldewin enters C, fright- 
ened. Madolin and others follow, Elaine enters 
C . after others are on ) 

Elaine— (scared) What is it— what is it? 
Aldewin— The child is hurt, the horses ran 
away, [servant enters with child ) 

Elaine— (takes the child quickly in her arms.) 
G», all of you; leave me alone with her: she is 



my own child. • 

Aldewin— The woman is mad. 

Elaine— I call heaven to witness that I am the 
mother of this child, and no other hand shal 
touch her. Look at your work! (lays child on 
•sofa R) You who should have protected her; you, 
who should have kept her safe from all danger; 
you have killed her. (nurse looking at the child.) 

Aldewin— Heaven knows I am sorry. I would 
rather have died than have hurt one hair of her 
little head. 

Nurse— The child is only stunned, and will 
.soon be all right. 

Elaine— My darling, my baby! 

Aldewin — Who are you, that you call my child 
yours? 

Elaine— It matters little who I am . 

Aldewin— (looks sharply in her face.) Great 
heavens, who are you? Answer me lest I go 
mad! 

Elaine~I am Elaine, your wife, whom you 
loved so little, that death in life seemed to her 
better than life with you. (Aldewin weeps.) 
am sorry you know it, I meant to keep my secret 
until I died, and I hoped to die soon. I am sor- 
ry you have found it out . I will go awav and no 
one need know . 

Aldewin— You will never leave me again, 
never!— Elaine, my wife, (holding out his arms.) 

(Elaine goos to him and they embrace . The 
o ther characters iook on in surbrise) 
CURTAIN-THE END. 



LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 
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